When it comes to sleep, most people don’t give much thought to their sleeping position. As long as you’re getting your hours in, does it really matter whether you’re curled up on your side, stretched out on your back, or lying face-down? Surprisingly, the position you choose each night can significantly affect your health in ways you might not expect. Different sleeping positions can lead to vastly different outcomes for your body—some beneficial, others less so.

While comfort should always be the top priority, understanding the unique benefits and drawbacks of various sleep positions can offer valuable insight into optimizing your rest. One sleeping position, in particular, stands out for its impressive health advantages: sleeping on your left side. From brain health to digestion and even glymphatic system efficiency, this position offers benefits that might make you reconsider your nightly routine.

One of the most notable benefits of sleeping on your left side is improved digestion. Since the stomach is naturally positioned on the left side of the body, gravity assists in the digestion process when you sleep this way. This position can help reduce bloating, constipation, and acid reflux. For those who frequently deal with heartburn, switching to the left side might offer significant relief.

Another key advantage is enhanced brain health. Many people are unaware that the brain has its own waste-clearing system called the glymphatic system. Research suggests that side sleeping, particularly on the left side, supports this system in efficiently removing metabolic waste. This process might help reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, though more research is needed to fully confirm these benefits in humans.

Sleeping on the left side is also known to improve circulation. This is especially important for pregnant women, as it allows optimal blood flow to the placenta while reducing pressure on the liver. Even for those who aren’t pregnant, improved circulation contributes to better overall health and reduced pressure on the heart.

For individuals who snore or struggle with sleep apnea, side sleeping can make a noticeable difference. Sleeping on your back often causes the tongue and soft palate to slide backward, partially blocking the airway and increasing snoring. Sleeping on your side keeps the airway clearer, leading to more consistent breathing and fewer disruptions throughout the night.

Additionally, sleeping on your left side can alleviate lower back pain. Unlike stomach sleeping, which strains the spine, side sleeping supports the natural curve of the spine and reduces tension in the lower back.

If you’re not naturally inclined to sleep on your side, there are strategies to help train your body. Start by investing in a supportive pillow and mattress. Your pillow should hold your neck in a neutral position without tilting your head upward or downward. Softer mattresses can help reduce pressure on your shoulders and hips, making side sleeping more comfortable.

Using extra pillows can also make a difference. Place one between your knees to keep your spine aligned and another to support your upper arm. Body pillows are excellent tools for maintaining your side-sleeping posture throughout the night. If you find yourself rolling onto your back or stomach, try sewing a tennis ball onto the back of your pajama shirt. This simple trick can prevent you from changing positions unconsciously.

However, side sleeping isn’t perfect for everyone. Some individuals might experience shoulder or hip pain, especially if their mattress is too firm. On the other hand, mattresses that are too soft can cause spinal misalignment, leading to discomfort.

Facial pressure is another potential downside. People with sinus congestion or glaucoma may find that side sleeping increases facial pressure, causing discomfort or even pain. Additionally, individuals who clench their jaws might notice more tension in their temporomandibular joints.

Comparing other sleeping positions reveals their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Back sleeping, for instance, can help alleviate hip and knee pain, reduce sinus congestion, and even minimize facial wrinkles. However, it’s not ideal for people prone to snoring or sleep apnea.

Stomach sleeping, while comfortable for some, is generally discouraged by sleep experts. This position can strain the spine, causing persistent neck and back pain. If you can’t break the habit, using a flat pillow or none at all can help reduce strain on your neck.

Ultimately, the best sleeping position is the one that leaves you feeling refreshed, pain-free, and well-rested. However, if you’re struggling with back pain, snoring, digestive issues, or brain fog, trying out left-side sleeping could be worth the effort.

With small adjustments like selecting the right pillows, mattress, and sleep setup, you might discover significant improvements in your overall sleep quality and health. So why not give it a try? Your body and mind might just thank you in the morning.